ADDIS ABABA
The Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute has graduated the first cohort of startups from its AI Startup Incubation Center after completing a six-month program, marking Ethiopia’s first structured initiative to help AI startups develop from concept to market.
Speaking at the graduation ceremony on Saturday, Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh described the event as a practical demonstration of the government’s vision of “Medemer” (Synergy) and Ethiopia’s growing capacity to deliver on its development ambitions.
He congratulated the graduating startups and encouraged them to prioritize innovations that contribute to Ethiopia’s economic growth and prosperity.
The institute’s Director General, Worku Gachena, said the startups received continuous technical guidance and institutional support from the idea stage through product development.
He added that the incubation center had worked to help participants transform innovative concepts into market-ready products.
Worku also expressed appreciation for the leadership and support provided by Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed, saying the government’s commitment had played an important role in the establishment and success of the incubation program.
During the six-month program, participants were provided with co-working space, high-speed internet access and opportunities to connect with international industry leaders, policymakers, investors and members of the scientific community.
According to the institute, these networking opportunities helped participants expand their professional connections, strengthen their expertise and improve access to future opportunities.
The ceremony concluded with awards recognizing outstanding startups in several categories, including AI Impact, AI Excellence, Women-Led Startup Excellence, Most Promising Startup and Innovation. Awards were presented to the winners by Deputy Prime Minister Temesgen Tiruneh.
The Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute said the graduation represents an important milestone in the country’s efforts to strengthen its AI innovation ecosystem and support technology-driven entrepreneurship.
